A new café on 97th Street is a big hit with workers from across the street in Canada Place and beyond, tourists, and passersby. 

At the time of writing, Chai Coffee Day (9665 101A Avenue) had 115 reviews on Google, all of them receiving a five-star rating (see sidebar). One enthusiastic customer says, “I legit come here every day I’m at the office to the point the owner starts making my masala chai the second he sees me crossing the street.” 

This attractive and welcoming café serves a wide range of chai, including masala, elaichi (cardamom), ginger, and Kashmiri pink. The menu also includes coffee, samosas, and vegetarian patties. 

The atmosphere is pleasant. The space features unique and bright furnishings, and signs that state “Give Thanks” and “Be Happy.” 

The owner, Puneet Singh Mehara, has a special charm. All customers receive an exceptionally friendly greeting, and Mehara wears outfits that are colourful, like the décor. When asked about what this reporter saw as “Elvis” hair, Mehara says, “This is just the way my hair is.”

Mehara’s sense of humour and enthusiasm pervades his advertising. For example, “Warning: Royal Pink Chai may cause sudden cravings and uncontrollable happiness. If your morning doesn’t start with chai, what are you even doing? We’ve got that steamy, spicy, soul-hugging goodness waiting for you. Bring your face. Bring your friends. Just don’t bring drama — we’ve got enough steam already.”

Mehara worked in insurance in Toronto for one year. Then he decided it was time to seek out something new. He moved to Edmonton without knowing a soul and happened to see a For Lease sign in a perfect location. By May 1st, 2025, Mehara was ready to open the doors of his new business.

Mehara explains the name, Chai Coffee Day: “People type ‘chai’ or ‘coffee’ in Google to look for drinks, so my business name pops up.” He added “day” because most people drink chai and coffee during the day. “If the name is too fancy, some people will avoid it, thinking it will be expensive.”

Comments from happy customers

“There’s a reason I’m back constantly, and I hope to see you there too. This chai is the best I’ve had in Edmonton, and I’ve had a lot.”

“Puneet, who genuinely knows how to make visitors feel appreciated and cared for, was what truly stood out.”

“The personnel was quite welcoming, never rushing us or sacrificing quality, even when we arrived at closing time. It’s uncommon to come across a location where excellent customer service is maintained throughout the day.”

Anita Jenkins is a retired writer and editor who lives in Boyle Street.